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Russia and Ukraine make biggest prisoner swap since war began

Russia and Ukraine carried out an unexpected prisoner exchange on Wednesday, the biggest since the start of the war, involving nearly 300 people, including 10 foreigners and the commanders who led the long Ukrainian defense campaign in the city of Mariupol at the start. this year.

The freed foreigners include two Britons and a Moroccan who had been sentenced to death in June after being captured fighting for Ukraine. Three other Britons, two Americans, a Croatian and a Swede were also released.

The timing and magnitude of the exchange came as a surprise, as Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a partial deployment of troops earlier in the day, in an apparent escalation of the conflict that began in February. Pro-Russian separatists also said last month that Mariupol commanders would stand trial.

Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky said the exchange – which involved aid from Turkey and Saudi Arabia – had been in the works for a long time and involved intense negotiation. Under the terms of the agreement, 215 Ukrainians – most of whom were captured after the fall of Mariupol – were released.

In return, Ukraine sent back 55 pro-Moscow Russians and Ukrainians, as well as Viktor Medvedchuk, the leader of a banned pro-Russian party who faced treason charges.

“This is clearly a victory for our country, for our entire society. And the main thing is that 215 families can see their loved ones safe and at home,” Zelensky said in a video speech.

Blinken celebrates prisoner exchange

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Wednesday celebrated the exchange of prisoners between Ukraine and Russia.

“The United States appreciates Ukraine, including all prisoners of war, regardless of nationality, in its dealings, and we look forward to these American citizens being reunited with their families,” Blinken said in a statement.

He also thanked Saudi Arabia for leading the initiative.

“I conveyed my gratitude to Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan in a call this morning,” Blinken said.

Relatives of Americans Alexander John-Robert Drueke and Andy Tai Ngoc Huynh -captured in June while fighting for Ukraine north of Kharkiv- confirmed to the CNN this Wednesday they were released.

In his statement, Blinken reiterated that US citizens should not travel to Ukraine.

“Americans traveling to Ukraine to participate in the fighting face significant risks and the United States cannot guarantee their safety. We encourage US citizens to devote their energies to the many other opportunities that exist to help the country of Ukraine and its people,” the secretary said.

Source: CNN Brasil

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